Research Methods - The Scientific Process P1

Question 1

What should scientific research be?

Answer 1

Objective

Question 2

What should the methods used be?

Answer 2

Empirical - Based on data, not just theory

Question 3

What does Scientific Research enable?

Answer 3

Replication of the research and an establishment of cause and effect

Question 4

Describe the process of Peer Review.

Answer 4

1. Before publication, scientific work is sent to experts in that field so they can assess the quality of the work
2. Other scientists read the published theories and results, and try to repeat them
3. If all the experiments in the world provide evidence to back it up, the theory is thought of as scientific “fact”
4. If new evidence comes to light that conflicts with the current evidence, the theory is questioned all over again. More rounds of testing will be carried out to see which theory prevails

Question 5

Describe the Scientific Process.

Answer 5

1. Ask a question and make an observation
2. Suggest an answer by forming a theory
3. Make a prediction/hypothesis
4. Carry out a test to provide evidence that will support the hypothesis

Question 6

What is Peer Review?

Answer 6

A process used to ensure the integrity of published scientific work

Question 7

List 2 pros of peer review

Answer 7

1. Helps to keep scientists honest

2. Helps to validate conclusions

Question 8

List 1 con of peer review

Answer 8

1. Some mistakes are made and bad science is published